In The Last Days: Perilous Times Will Come 

You must understand this, that in the last days distressing times will come. For people will be lovers of themselves and lovers of money. They will be boasters, arrogant, abusive, and disobedient to their parents. They will be ungrateful, unholy, unfeeling, implacable, and slanderers. Also, they will be profligates, brutes, and haters of good. They will be treacherous, reckless, and swollen with conceit. They will be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. They will hold to the outward form of godliness but deny its power. Avoid them!

A Reflection on 2 Timothy 3:1-17 

In the sacred text of 2 Timothy 3:1-17, the Apostle Paul provides a solemn warning. He gives a poignant caution about the nature of the last days. He foretells a time of unparalleled peril. This period is marked by moral decay and spiritual challenges. These challenges will test the faith and resilience of believers. 

The Nature of the Last Days 

Paul begins with certainty. He states, “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1, NKJV). This stark declaration sets the tone for the ensuing verses. Paul delineates the characteristics of the people who will populate these tumultuous times. 

Traits of the Ungodly 

In verses 2-4, Paul describes a litany of traits that will be prevalent among individuals during these last days: 

• People will be lovers of themselves, prioritizing their own desires and ambitions above all else. 

• They will be lovers of money, driven by greed and materialism. 

• Boastful and proud, they will exalt themselves and their achievements. 

• Blasphemous, showing disrespect and contempt for the divine. 

• Disobedient to parents, lacking respect and honor for familial authority. 

• Unthankful and unholy, devoid of gratitude and reverence. 

• Unloving, unforgiving, and slanderous, marked by a lack of compassion and a propensity for spreading falsehoods. 

• Without self-control, impulsive and indulgent in their appetites. 

• Brutal, despisers of what is good, hostile towards virtue and righteousness. 

• Traitors, reckless, conceited, and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. 

A Form of Godliness 

Paul further elaborates in verse 5 that these individuals will have “a form of godliness but deny its power.” This indicates a superficial show of piety and religiousness that lacks genuine spiritual substance. Such a facade is deceptive, as it masks the true moral and spiritual corruption within. 

The Reaction of the Believer 

The Apostle Paul advises Timothy and, by extension, all believers to avoid such people. He emphasizes the importance of discernment and separation from those who embody these negative traits (verse 5). 

The Example of Jannes and Jambres 

In verses 6-9, Paul draws a parallel. He compares the corrupt individuals of the last days to the magicians Jannes and Jambres who opposed Moses. These men are emblematic of resistance to divine truth, using deceit and falsehood to lead others astray. Paul assures that their folly will be obvious to all, just as it was with Jannes and Jambres. 

The Calling of the Believer 

Paul then shifts focus, encouraging believers to hold fast to their faith and the teachings they have received. He reminds Timothy of his own example. He highlights his doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance. These virtues stand out midst persecutions and afflictions (verses 10-11). This personal testimony serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for believers facing the challenges of the last days. 

The Power of Scripture 

The passage concludes with a powerful affirmation of the centrality of Scripture in the life of the believer. Paul states that “all Scripture is given by inspiration of God.” It “is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (verse 16). This underscores the life-changing and sustaining power of the Word of God, equipping believers for every good work. 

Personal Reflection

The phrase “In the Last Days: Perilous Times Will Come” evokes a deep sense of solemnity and reflection, particularly as it resonates with both spiritual warnings and the realities of the modern world. It compels one to consider the fragility of human existence and the challenges that define our era.

In pondering its meaning, I find myself reflecting on the state of humanity, where technological advancements have brought convenience yet have also exposed us to moral and ethical dilemmas. The term “perilous times” feels uncannily relevant when we consider the prevalence of global conflicts, environmental crises, and the disconnection that often accompanies our hyperconnected digital age. These perils are not merely external; they also live within—manifesting as personal struggles, societal division, and the erosion of empathy.

Yet, within the weight of such words, there lies an undercurrent of hope and urgency. They remind me of the importance of resilience and faith. How do we navigate these “last days,” whether they are literal or figurative? For me, the answer lies in cultivating compassion, grounding ourselves in principles that endure, and striving each day to live with integrity despite the chaos that surrounds us.

Ultimately, the phrase serves as both a cautionary message and a call to action. It challenges us to reflect on what truly matters and to reach for a higher purpose, even as the world around us grows increasingly complex and unpredictable. In this way, perilous times are not merely a harbinger of despair but a reminder of our capacity to rise above them with courage and grace.

Conclusion 

As we consider 2 Timothy 3:1-17, we are reminded of the urgent need for vigilance. We must be faithful and rely on Scripture while navigating the perilous times of the last days. Paul’s words offer a sobering warning. They also give a source of encouragement. He calls believers to stand firm in their faith. Paul urges us to trust in the enduring power of God’s Word. The last days indeed be fraught with challenges. Yet, with divine guidance, believers can persevere. They can uphold the truth even in the face of adversity. 

To God be the glory forever and ever! Amen.

Minister A. Francine Green

Note:

All Scripture references are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE) unless otherwise noted).